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Description
Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket, commonly known as Crape Myrtle, is a deciduous tree native to East Asia and India. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy flowers and attractive bark. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide with a round, spreading canopy.The bark of the tree is smooth and mottled with colors ranging from light gray to dark brown. The foliage is dark green and glossy with an elliptical shape. The flowers bloom in the summer and range in color from pink to red. The tree produces small, round fruit that attracts birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Lagerstroemia |
Appearance
Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket has a round, spreading canopy with smooth, mottled bark. The foliage is dark green and glossy with an elliptical shape. In the summer, the tree produces showy flowers that range in color from pink to red. The flowers are followed by small, round fruit that attracts birds and other wildlife. In the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant orange-red color before falling off for the winter.
Care Guide
Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during periods of drought. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in late winter to early spring to promote healthy growth and remove any damaged or diseased branches.The tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-9 and can be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and spider mites.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket can be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and spider mites. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide and by improving air circulation around the tree. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket is native to East Asia and India and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide.
Q: What is the best time to prune the tree?
A: Prune the tree in late winter to early spring.
Q: Is Lagerstroemia Indica Red Rocket drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the tree is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the tree?
A: The tree can be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and spider mites.
Related Plants
- Lagerstroemia Indica
- Lagerstroemia Speciosa
- Lagerstroemia Floribunda
References
- “Lagerstroemia Indica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on October 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b406
- “Lagerstroemia Indica.” The Spruce. Accessed on October 28, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-crepe-myrtle-trees-3269362
- “Crape Myrtle: Plant Care and Collection of Varieties.” Garden.org. Accessed on October 28, 2021. https://garden.org/plants/group/crepemyrtle/
